Grey Seal

Grey Seal Halichoerus grypus

A very large mammal, the Grey Seal spends most of its time out at sea where it feeds on fish. It is often found on rocky shores, although large colonies of Grey Seals breed in the sand dunes at Donna Nook on the Lincolnshire coast: the fluffy, white pups can be seen between October and December. The pups remain on land until they have moulted their white coats and trebled their birth weight; at this point they head to the sea to hunt for themselves.

Behaviour

The Grey Seal can be distinguished from the Common Seal by its larger size and longer head with a sloping ‘Roman nose’ profile. Mainly grey in colour, with darker blotches and spots.

Size

Length: up to 3m Weight: 120-300kg Average Lifespan: 30-40 years

Status

Protected in Britain under the Conservation of Seals Act, 1970. Also protected under the Wildlife (Northern Ireland) Order, 1985

Distribution

Found around the coasts of Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and parts of East, North West and South West England.

When to see

January – December

Facts

Despite numbers dropping to only 500 in the early 20th century, it’s estimated that there are now more than 120,000 Grey Seals in Britain, representing 40% of the world’s population.